If you just moved to Chattanooga, chances are you’re looking for something fun to do to help you get better acquainted with your new city. You’re in luck! This dynamic place has so many fantastic attractions suitable for all ages and interests. From historic experiences to outdoor adventures, here are some of the best things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Tennessee Aquarium and IMAX 3D
The Tennessee Aquarium (located in downtown Chattanooga near The Maclellan) has some of the world’s most vibrant displays of aquatic wildlife. Visitors will come face-to-face with fascinating creatures from all around the world, including indigenous species from your backyard. Over at the aquarium’s IMAX 3D theater, you can enjoy a state-of-the-art 3D cinema experience on one of the biggest screens in the city.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum takes you on a ride through history on a classic steam engine where you’ll learn all about Chattanooga’s first rail line from 1850. Suitable for all ages, this attraction has been described as a moving museum with an attraction tour that can last anywhere between an hour to a whole day. Hop aboard for year-round visits, or ask about their seasonal excursions.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
This military park allows you to step back in time, showing visitors its rich history that tells of the major turning point during the Civil War. You will also see beautiful views of Chattanooga from Lookout Mountain, where war-time cannons overlook the city. The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park consists of various main areas you can explore by yourself or tour with a park ranger.
Chattanooga Zoo
Located inside Warner Park, the Chattanooga Zoo provides visitors with wild encounters, camel rides, tours, and more. Home to some of the world’s most exotic animals, this 13-acre zoological park is a popular destination for those new to the city. Some of the most notable experiences here are seeing red pandas, snow leopards, and other animals from Latin America, such as jaguars, macaws, kinkajous, capybaras, and the prehensile-tailed porcupine.
Rock City and Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is home to one of the world’s most beautiful cave waterfalls, providing visitors with a scenic tour in its underground tunnels. It’s the deepest commercial cave in America, and also is the world’s largest underground waterfall at 145-feet deep. If you’d prefer to stay above ground, you can also visit Rock City, which has an elevation of 1,700 feet. Make sure to check out the 100-foot waterfall and the great views from Lookout Mountain.